1/48 Engel Gato Plans

[apa-228]

I got the set of bow plane retracts I advertised for but I have an Engel Gato in 1/50 scale and am going to install the bow plane retract mechanism into it. The bow plane kits were made for the 1/48th scale and states "see plan for installation". The plan for the 1/50th scale was done way before retracts were available and I need the mounting hole locations for the forward bulkhead of the waterproof compartment. Any help is appreciated.

[bob the builder]

Can't you just take a lofting of the mounting holes off the plane assembly and transfer it to the bulkhead? Perhaps a pic so we can see what you've got to work with...

[apa-228]

Hi Bob-I am concerned about physical positioning of the piston tank which will sit behind the bow plane retract motor. The area is a bit cramped to begin with. The plans I have are for the older Gatoas I said and I am not comfortable using that for the 1/48 Gato mechanism. Both the supplied instructions and Engel say this can be done, but I want to get it right the first time. Thanks for the response. Tom

[JWLaRue]

Tom,

Are you referring to the two places where the retract rotational and dive plane control rods penetrate the forward bulkhead or the actual placement of the bulkhead itself?

-Jeff

p.s. I thought I read somewhere that the Engel 1/50 scale [i]Gato]/i] actually measures out to 1/48...?

[apa-228]

Hi Jeff - I am looking for the placement of the penetrations and the location of the forward ballast tank. I want to be sure I place the BT in the proper position. From looking at the Engel plans I have, Engel's ads and the plans photo of an Engel advertised on this site I would have to agree with that supposition. The Beam and OAL are the same. I think they may have done that to differntiate the new better kit from the older less professionally done kit. I have one of the originals, but with an all white upper and lower hull.

[apa-228]

Engel finally has their plan set and CD manual for the Gato back in stock, I ordered a set this morning.